Virtual Network Function Power Profiles for Cross-Layer Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Optimizing power management for virtual network functions (VNFs) in communication systems is complex due to the interplay between physical and virtual resources, requiring an approach that considers the entire system to minimize power consumption effectively.
Innovation Solution
A power management component and method that manages VNFs by defining power states and transitions, considering both physical and virtual resources, and includes mechanisms for state restoration, leveraging existing management and orchestration systems to optimize power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If power management is optimized for virtual network functions by considering multiple layers (physical resources, virtual resources, and application), then power consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments power management into distinct operational modes (normal mode and sleep mode) with clearly defined characteristics for each layer. Physical resources, virtual resources, and application functions are managed separately within each mode, allowing complex multi-layer optimization to be broken down into manageable segments that can be independently controlled and restored.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by storing operation state information before transitioning to sleep mode and preparing restoration procedures in advance. This includes saving the state of physical resources, virtual resources, and application functions before power reduction, enabling efficient recovery without requiring complex real-time decision-making during the transition.
2Loss of energy
If virtual network functions transition to sleep mode to save power, then energy efficiency improves, but service availability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that monitor the operational state and performance requirements of the virtual network function. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently determines when to transition to sleep mode and when to restore to normal mode, ensuring that service availability requirements are met while maximizing energy efficiency. The feedback loop continuously adjusts the power management strategy based on actual system conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the power management system dynamic by allowing transitions between normal mode and sleep mode based on real-time conditions. The system can adaptively change its operational state rather than being static, enabling it to optimize energy efficiency when conditions permit while maintaining service availability when needed. The dynamic nature allows the system to respond flexibly to changing traffic patterns and service requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power states are defined with different resource configurations, then power management flexibility increases, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by defining specific characteristics for each power state that are tailored to the requirements of that state. Normal mode has configurations optimized for full functionality, while sleep mode has configurations optimized for energy savings. Each layer (physical resources, virtual resources, application) has its own local characteristics adjusted according to the operational mode, allowing flexibility without requiring complete system redesign for each state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to manage the transition between power states by modifying specific configuration parameters of physical resources, virtual resources, and application functions. Rather than fundamentally changing the system architecture, the patent optimizes power management by adjusting parameters such as resource allocation, virtualization container states, and application operational modes, thereby achieving flexibility through controlled parameter modification.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a power management component is described comprising a memory configured to store, for a virtual network function, a power saving profile for each of multiple power states of the virtual network function, wherein, for each power state, the power saving profiles indicates an amount of physical data processing resources to be used by the virtual network function in the power state, an amount of virtualization containers provided by the physical resources to be used by the virtual network function in the power state and a service capacity of a network function running on the virtualization containers to be provided in the power state; and a controller configured to select one of the power states for the virtual network function and to control the virtual network function to operate according to the power saving profile stored for the selected power state.